Kelly ran a reverse, accepting the Eagles' offer after initially declining their overtures and saying he would remain at Oregon.

Now, the innovative offensive guru will try to bring his brand of fast-break football to the NFL.

"I'm in awe right now," Dixon said inside the Ravens' locker room. "I'm at a loss for words. I'm sure it was a business decision, a family decision, but it's really hard to leave the Ducks. I think he is ready for that next step.

"He's done a lot at the University of Oregon. He really put them on the map nationally. I think he can export that same offense and bring that to the NFL. I think he's in a good situation. I could see Michael Vick doing the same things we did at Oregon."

Kelly thrived at the collegiate level, but is he ready to stand in front of a meeting room of grown men and lead an NFL team?

"Without a doubt," Dixon said. "As a man, totally, he will command respect."